Bam Aquino Pushes to Revive PROTECT Committee to Strengthen Philippines’ Preparedness for ‘Super El Niño’
MANILA, Philippines — Senator Bam Aquino is calling for the reconvening of the Senate’s Proactive Response and Oversight for Timely and Effective Crisis Strategy (PROTECT) Committee to strengthen the Philippine government’s preparedness for the potential impacts of a severe El Niño event.
In a letter addressed to Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian, Aquino emphasized the importance of a coordinated, whole-of-government response to the possible consequences of prolonged dry conditions, extreme heat, and water shortages.
Reports cited in the senator’s appeal suggest that the country could face reduced rainfall and drought conditions in several areas, with potential impacts intensifying toward late 2026 and early 2027.
“May I respectfully request the reconvening of the Proactive Response and Oversight for Timely and Effective Crisis Strategy (PROTECT) Committee to assess and align government preparations,” Aquino stated in his letter.
Strengthening Government Coordination Before a Potential Crisis
Aquino underscored the need for government agencies to act collectively rather than wait for severe conditions to disrupt essential services and livelihoods.
The PROTECT Committee was originally established in March 2026 to coordinate government responses to the economic and energy-related consequences of tensions in the Middle East.
The senator believes the same interagency mechanism could help the country prepare for the possible effects of a severe El Niño event.
By bringing relevant departments together, the committee could identify preparedness gaps, coordinate contingency plans, and help ensure that assistance reaches vulnerable communities without unnecessary delays.
Aquino identified agriculture, education, public health, food security, small businesses, and essential services as among the sectors requiring immediate attention.
Protecting Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Small Businesses
Agriculture is among the sectors particularly vulnerable to prolonged dry conditions, which can affect crop production, water availability, and food supply.
Aquino urged the Department of Agriculture (DA) to present comprehensive plans to protect farmers and fisherfolk while maintaining a stable and affordable food supply.
He also called on the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to prepare assistance programs for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly agriculture-dependent businesses that may face operational disruptions, rising production costs, and supply shortages.
The senator stressed that government assistance should be planned in advance to help affected workers and business owners recover from potential losses.
Such preparations could help reduce the economic burden on communities whose livelihoods depend heavily on agriculture and other climate-sensitive industries.
Ensuring Student Safety and Public Health Preparedness
Aquino also highlighted the importance of protecting students, teachers, and communities from the dangers associated with extreme heat.
He urged the Department of Education (DepEd) and Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to develop appropriate measures to safeguard learners and educators while ensuring educational continuity during possible class suspensions or disruptions.
The Department of Health (DOH), meanwhile, was encouraged to strengthen the readiness of hospitals and local health centers to respond to heat-related illnesses and other health risks.
Communities that may experience water shortages should likewise receive timely government assistance to prevent further disruptions to daily life.
Addressing Electricity Costs and Essential Services
Beyond agriculture and health, Aquino raised concerns over electricity supply and the possibility of higher power costs.
He emphasized the need for government agencies to identify measures that would help secure sufficient electricity while easing the financial burden on Filipino households.
The senator also urged the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to maintain reliable communications services, particularly for schools, businesses, farmers, and communities that may depend on digital connectivity during emergencies.
At the same time, he called on the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to provide updated scientific assessments, early-warning information, forecasts, and technological solutions to support national and local preparedness efforts.
These measures, he said, would allow government agencies to make informed decisions and respond more effectively to emerging risks.
A Proactive Approach to National Preparedness
Aquino’s proposal places emphasis on prevention, coordinated planning, and timely government intervention rather than relying solely on emergency responses after a crisis has already developed.
Reconvening the PROTECT Committee could provide a centralized platform for assessing government readiness, clarifying agency responsibilities, and accelerating the delivery of assistance to communities most at risk.
As the Philippines faces the possibility of prolonged dry conditions, early preparation and cooperation across government agencies could play a critical role in protecting food security, public health, education, livelihoods, and essential services.
The proposed revival of the committee highlights the importance of preparing ahead of potential disruptions to ensure that Filipino families and vulnerable sectors are better equipped to withstand the challenges of a severe El Niño event.